Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Play only with money you can afford to lose, and never gamble with funds needed for essential expenses like rent, bills, or food.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling in New Zealand. Online casinos have a legal responsibility to verify your age before allowing access to gaming services. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Neglecting work, school, or personal relationships due to gambling
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
• Lying about the amount of money spent on gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
• Experiencing financial problems as a result of gambling
• Failed attempts to stop or reduce gambling
• Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other problems

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Establish a limit on how much you are willing to lose before stopping play
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
• Session Limits: Set a maximum duration for each gaming session
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing the gaming platform

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.

Support Organizations in New Zealand & Worldwide

If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, contact these organizations:

New Zealand

• Gambling Helpline NZ — Free, confidential phone and chat support: 0800 664 262
• Problem Gambling Foundation — Support and resources: www.pgf.nz
• Samaritans NZ — Crisis support: 0800 726 666

International Resources

• GamCare (UK) — www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion) — www.gamstop.co.uk
• Gambling Help Online (Australia) — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) — www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling is a treatable condition. You are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Whether you are experiencing early warning signs or have a serious gambling problem, professional support is available and confidential.

Contact the Gambling Helpline NZ on 0800 664 262 or visit www.pgf.nz for immediate assistance.